Bear Grylls has commented on Russell Brand’s rape conviction, two years after Grylls baptized the comedian.
In a post on X Friday, the British adventurer and television presenter said it was “right that justice has now been served.” Grylls, known for survival programs including “Man vs. Wild,” said Brand’s faith had seemed genuine when Grylls attended his private baptism.
Grylls said he had also visited people in prison who committed serious crimes, describing it as part of the responsibility of people of faith to love and serve others. He added that he would not want to discourage anyone from coming to faith, while saying that judgment belongs to the courts and God.
“I can’t imagine how hard this time has been for the victims, the heroes of the day,” Grylls wrote.
In May 2024, after the baptism, Brand posted a video thanking Grylls and a friend for standing beside him during the ceremony. Grylls later described it as a privilege to support someone expressing a need for forgiveness and strength.
Brand was convicted of one count of rape and three counts of sexual assault after a four-week trial at Southwark Crown Court in London. The offenses involved four women and took place between 2004 and 2009, as Brand’s career was gaining prominence.
The jury found him guilty of raping a 21-year-old fan in 2009 and sexually assaulting three other women in separate incidents. He was acquitted of two other rape charges and one count of attempted indecent assault.
Brand, 51, has maintained his innocence. He was denied bail after the verdict and remains in custody ahead of sentencing, scheduled for Monday, Nov. 9. Police are also investigating two further rape allegations against him.
